Karen Delores Flannigan, age 77, of Eveleth, MN, died Tuesday, August 11, 2026. She was born June 24, 1949, to Donald & Pearl (Overland) Hawkings in Duluth, MN. She graduated from Eveleth High School in 1967.

From an early age, Karen possessed a caring spirit that would become the defining thread throughout her life. She went on to nursing school and became an LPN. She took time to raise her family and spent many years doing private-duty nursing until retiring.

She met & married Robert Flannigan on November 29, 1969. They had 4 children and were committed to building a strong family. She remained devoted in love to him & their children her whole life.

She found beauty in life's simple pleasures and helped others see it too. She loved horseback riding, summers at the lake, camping, fishing, swimming, painting, reading, and trail rides on her four-wheeler. She cherished sunset skies, nights under the stars, and moments spent with family and friends. Karen's life was marked by selflessness and unwavering dedication to those she loved. Whether she was preserving treasured holiday traditions or making sure a loved one had their favorite birthday cake and frosting, Karen understood that life's most meaningful moments were often the simplest ones shared together.

She always had a strong relationship with God and raised her family in that faith. She endured a lot in life and was an example of non-judgmental kindness, with a quiet strength that emphasized the need to make good decisions & do the right thing.

Karen is survived by her son, Brian Flannigan (fiancé Heather Springer) of Forbes, and daughter, Shelly Flannigan of Eveleth; stepson, Jeff Torma of California; several grandchildren; as well as many supportive and loving extended family members and friends.

Karen was preceded in death by her husband, Robert (Bob); daughter, Paula; son, Michael; parents, Donald & Pearl (Overland) Hawkings; and brothers, James & David Hawkings.

Rest in peace in the arms of our Lord, Karen. Your love and light will continue to guide us always.

Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Faith United Lutheran Church in Iron, MN. Pastor Thomas Gustafson will officiate. Coffee will be served at the church following the services. Interment will be at Forbes Cemetery in Forbes.

Family services provided by Bauman-Cron, A Bauman Family Funeral Home in Virginia. To leave a remembrance online, see www.baumanfuneralhome.com.